Bridgnorth, Shropshire

"The finest view in all my Kingdom" - Charles I

Whether you admire the view over the king's shoulder from the sandstone cliff of Bridgnorth, or stand on the bridge below, (at the height of summer the Severn is almost covered by the flowers of water crowfoot) you won't have to look far to find a superlative in the Severn Valley.

Like the King, most of our visitors can't restrain themselves.

Bridgnorth was once one of the busiest river ports in Europe, but nowadays, the Severn, clear and unpolluted, is a quiet haven for anglers, walkers and wildlife. The river divides the town into High Town and Low Town, the two being linked by seven sets of ancient donkey steps and a Victorian funicular, the Bridgnorth Cliff Railway.

"If you approach the High Town by the cliff railway you feel you are being lifted up to heaven." - John Betjeman

The oldest and steepest inland funicular railway makes the heavenly journey at least 150 times a day. In 1892, when it opened, the entrance was watched over by a temperance restaurant and refreshment house.

Just as rewarding for the pilgrim is the ancient Cartway, one of Shropshire's most interesting streets which leads down to the flower-filled Quayside, the cliffs and caves of Lavington Gardens and on to Severn Park.

Whichever route you choose to the top, you can enjoy King Charles' 'finest view' from Castle Walk, before checking out another of the valley's superlatives, the Castle Keep that leans at an impossible angle greater than the Tower of Pisa.

History abounds in Bridgnorth. Thomas Telford's church of St Mary Magdalene sits grandly next door, while the timber-framed Town Hall set on high brick piers, interrupts the traffic flow in the High Street. The redundant but revered St Leonard's Church set in its own cathedral-like close provides calm away from the hustle and bustle of the town.

The medieval Northgate, which houses the Northgate Museum stands guard at one end of the High Street whilst the Italianate splendour of the New Market Buildings stand at the other.

18th century writers compared Bridgnorth's spectacular setting to old Jerusalem, or even Gibraltar.

Choose from tiny tots woodland treks, Gruffalo trails, family rides, cream tea rides or enjoy a jug of pimms on return from your ride! We also offer superb tuition as we are home to 4 UKCC professional coaches and offer confidence building beginner lessons right up to X Country jumping and show jumping for the more advanced rider.

The quintessential hidden gem, St. Michael’s Church, Upton Cressets stands next to a magnificent Elizabethan estate overlooking the lush rolling hills of the surrounding countryside. A church of ancient origins, the present structure dates to the time of the Norman Conquest.

Arley Arboretum & Gardens provides the ideal day out for you and your family, a dream escape from the bustle of everyday life. There is plenty to do for all ages from the Italian garden with its fountain, to the Themed Trails and maze. Our Peacocks are also a splendid sight wandering around the gardens.

Bridgnorth Town Hall is a black and white building erected in 1650. In the 16th Century the view up the High Street would have been uninterrupted. In the centre of the street would have been the High Cross, otherwise known as a Market Cross. Opposite the top of Hungry Street, now St Mary’s Street, stood the 'New House', a raised building containing the office of the town's chief magistrates. On the ground floor was the public wool market.

Book your tour of Apley Victorian Walled Garden (1 1/2 hours), hosted by head gardener, Phil Allen, followed by lunch or dinner at The Hundred House.

With a 3 course menu created by Executive Chef, Stuart Phillips, using ingredients from Apley Garden and local suppliers in our 2AA rosette award winning restaurant, your meal will encompass the best produce that Apley and Shropshire have to offer. After dining you are also welcome to explore the award winning Hundred House Herb & Flower Gardens.

All this for just £25.00 per person.

This offer includes Apley Garden tour & three course seasonal lunch/dinner at The Hundred House. Monday-Thursday mornings, afternoon & early evening. Available for groups of a minimum of 15, up to a maximum of 50 people

A traditional 16th Century Coaching Inn in the heart of the Shropshire countryside, under 2 miles from the historic town of Bridgnorth. We specialise in short breaks and activity and sporting holidays.

Food & Drink in Bridgnorth

The Woodberry Inn is a unique free house set in the heart of Bridgnorth, serving real ales and fine dining. The building has been handsomely transformed with oak flooring, wood burners, and leather seating, creating a stylish environment for everyone.

The Pheasant at Neenton is a stunningly restored dining pub with rooms, serving superb Shropshire food in a real country local. We have three newly-opened en-suite bedrooms, with relaxing décor and furnished with a touch of style.

A traditional 16th Century Coaching Inn in the heart of the Shropshire countryside, under 2 miles from the historic town of Bridgnorth. We specialise in short breaks and activity and sporting holidays.

Website provided by Shropshire Tourism for businesses in the Bridgnorth area with a contribution from Bridgnorth & District Tourist Association.
Bridgnorth & District Tourist Association is funded by it's members with support from Bridgnorth Town Council.
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